ETHYLENE OXIDE

Ethylene oxide is used as a chemical intermediate in the production of ethylene glycol and higher glycols (Budavari, 1996; CGA, 1999).
It is used as a fumigant (fungicide and insecticide) and disinfectant (NTP , 2001a).

It is used to fumigate furniture, carpets, books and paper, motor oil, soil, animal bedding, clothing (leather, furs, textile), beekeeping equipment, and transport vehicles (Hayes, 1982; (NTP , 2001a). Honey samples have also been shown to show ethylene oxide residues (NTP , 2001a).
Although a much smaller amount of ethylene oxide is used as sterilant, it is this use that the highest occupational exposure levels have been measured (IARC, 1997; (Zenz, 1994)

It is used in gas sterilizers at health care facilities. Substantial quantities of ethylene oxide may remain in treated materials after gas sterilization. An aeration phase is required, the length of which depends on the material being treated (Grant, 1993; HSDB , 2002). Such use in sterilization was starting to be replaced by other systems by the mid-1990s, (NTP , 2001a), and in Germany, severe restrictions are in place regarding the use as sterilant (Personal Communication, 1996).
It is used as a fumigant in foods such as cocoa, flour, dried egg powder, nuts, coconut, fruits, dehydrated vegetables, spices, and seasoning. Residual amounts of ethylene oxide may be found temporarily on the foods treated. Ethylene oxide may generate ethylene glycol under the temperature and pressure used for sterilization. Additionally, it may react with foods being treated (for example, with water and inorganic halides from foods and produce glycols and halohydrins). Persistence of ethylene oxide and its by-products depends on the grain size; type of food aeration procedures and temperature; and storage conditions and cooking conditions (Hayes, 1982; (NTP , 2001a).

Black and herb teas have also been shown to show ethylene oxide residues (NTP , 2001a).
It is used to accelerate the maturation of tobacco leaves (NTP , 2001a).

Ethylene oxide has been investigated for use as an agent to improve wood durability (NTP , 2001a).
It is used as a petroleum demulsifier (Lewis, 1998).
It is used as a rocket propellant (Lewis, 1998).
It is used to lower the viscosity of water for fire fighting (Lewis, 1998).

FORMS

Ethylene oxide is generally available in grades of 99.7% purity (as technical grade) or higher (100% with no acetylene as commercial grade) (CGA, 1999; HSDB , 2002).
Ethylene oxide in gas form is explosive at concentrations above 3 percent, and it must be mixed with carbon dioxide or fluorocarbon (HSDB , 2002):

Carboxide is a nonflammable mixture of 10% by weight of ethylene oxide in carbon dioxide. Sterilant 12 is a nonflammable mixture of 12% by weight in fluorocarbon 12.

SOURCES

Ethylene oxide does not occur naturally. Ethylene oxide is produced by the oxidation of ethylene. It is also produced as a product of the combustion of hydrocarbon fuels and naturally-occurring hydrocarbons (Ashford, 2001; Harbison, 1998) Howard, 1990).

-CLINICAL EFFECTS

GENERAL CLINICAL EFFECTS

Early signs and symptoms of exposure to ethylene oxide (ETO) may include eye, nose, and throat irritation and noticing a sweet or peculiar taste in the mouth.

Delayed effects may include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dyspnea, cough, weakness, lethargy, numbness, incoordination and vertigo. Acute effects such as pneumonia, pulmonary edema, respiratory failure, asthma, cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, allergic reaction, paralysis and coma may also be seen.

Direct contact with the eye can cause severe ocular damage. Direct dermal contact with the gas or liquid ethylene oxide can cause blistering, severe chemical burns and tissue necrosis. Evaporation of the liquid from the skin may cause frostbite.

Occupational exposure to ethylene oxide may be linked with spontaneous abortions and other adverse reproductive effects. ETO is known to cause cancer in laboratory animals and is a probable human carcinogen. Leukemia and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma have been primarily associated with ETO. Cases of Hodgkin's disease, stomach, breast and pancreatic cancer, lymphosarcoma and reticulosarcoma have also been reported.

CNS and musculoskeletal abnormalities have been reported in the offspring of laboratory animals.

POTENTIAL HEALTH HAZARDS - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)

TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled or absorbed through skin.
Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite.
Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.
Runoff from fire control may cause pollution.

ACUTE CLINICAL EFFECTS

Ethylene oxide is very reactive chemically and is a strong eye, skin, and respiratory tract irritant (HSDB , 2002; Bingham et al, 2001). It can cause severe irritation, burns, and necrosis of any tissue with which it comes into contact. The type of injury produced by ethylene oxide resembles that from MUSTARD GAS, with a latent period of 1 to 5 hours before effects appear (Hayes & Laws, 1991; Hathaway et al, 1996; Sittig, 1991).

The most likely route of occupational exposure is by inhalation (Bingham et al, 2001). One of the early signs after inhalation of the gas is a peculiar taste (Hathaway et al, 1996). Inhalation of high concentrations can cause pulmonary edema (CHRIS , 2002).

Pure anhydrous ethylene oxide does not cause primary injury to the skin (Fisher, 1984). Direct contact with the gas or aqueous solutions can cause severe dermatitis, edema, erythema, desquamation, blisters, blebs, and burns (Baselt, 2000; Hathaway et al, 1996; Hayes & Laws, 1991; HSDB , 2002; Marchand et al, 1958; Sittig, 1991). In one study with human volunteers, a 40% to 60% solution caused second-degree burns in as little as 45 seconds (Hayes & Laws, 1991; Sexton & Henson, 1950).

Contact with residual traces of the gas in gloves and/or clothing can cause burns (Gilman et al, 1985). The lowest level of contamination in clothing which will cause skin irritation in non-sensitized individuals is 1000 ppm (Fisher, 1984). The burns usually heal completely within 21 days; sometimes there is a residual brown pigmentation (Hathaway et al, 1996; Sexton & Henson, 1950).

Evaporation of large amounts of the liquid from the skin can cause frostbite (HSDB , 2002).

High concentrations of the vapor are irritating to the eyes; severe eye injury can occur from direct contact with the liquid (HSDB , 2002; Fisher, 1984; Jay et al, 1982).

Conjunctivitis, cataract formation, corneal damage, corneal opacities, and necrosis of the eyes have been seen following ethylene oxide exposure (Bingham et al, 2001; Fisher, 1984; Jay et al, 1982; Sittig, 1991).

Thrombophlebitis can result from use of catheters contaminated with small amounts of ethylene oxide (Gilman et al, 1985).

Systemic effects of acute ethylene oxide exposure are consistent with CNS depression. They include nausea, vomiting (delayed if exposed to low concentration), abdominal pain, dyspnea, headache, drowsiness, vertigo, neuropathy, parasystole, and paralysis (Bingham et al, 2001; HSDB , 2002; Lewis, 1997).

Unconsciousness and seizures occurred in a person exposed to an estimated concentration of 500 ppm for 2 to 3 minutes (Grant, 1993). Recurrent seizures and difficulty with motor function occurred in a case of acute exposure to ethylene oxide; the patient was asymptomatic by 2 months after exposure (Salinas et al, 1981).

Inhalation of high concentrations can cause deep anesthesia, coma, and respiratory arrest (Hayes & Laws, 1991; Marchand et al, 1958). One case of irreversible parkinsonism from acute exposure to ethylene oxide has been described; the patient had been in a coma for 3 days (Barbosa et al, 1992).

Pulmonary irritation, dyspnea, pulmonary edema, and pneumonia have been reported following inhalation exposure to ethylene oxide (Bingham et al, 2001; Lewis, 1997; Sittig, 1991).

In animal studies, exposure to more than 1000 ppm for 2 hours produced nasal discharge, lacrimation, delayed dyspnea, apathy, pulmonary edema, vomiting, diarrhea, hindlimb paralysis, periodic convulsions, and death (Hathaway et al, 1996; ACGIH, 1991). Corneal opacities occurred in guinea pigs (Bingham et al, 2001; HSDB , 2002; Hathaway et al, 1996). Degenerative changes in the liver, kidney and lungs were seen at autopsy (Hathaway et al, 1996).

CHRONIC CLINICAL EFFECTS

Effects reported from overexposure to approximately 700 ppm ethylene oxide from a leaking hospital sterilizer over a period of three weeks were similar to those of acute exposure. Signs and symptoms included eye and mucous membrane irritation, nausea, headache, vomiting, weakness, fatigability, lethargy, ataxia, recurrent seizures, and memory and speech problems (Hayes & Laws, 1991; Gross et al, 1979).

Symptoms reported in a group of hospital employees exposed to high levels of residual ethylene oxide in surgical gowns included rash at points of contact, headaches, numbness and weakness in the hands, and memory loss. Testing revealed neuropathy, elevated vibration threshold, abnormal pressure threshold, and mild cognitive impairment (Brashear et al, 1996).

Ethylene oxide is a sensitizer. Occupational asthma has been linked with ethylene oxide (Verraes & Michel, 1995). Allergic eczematous dermatitis has been reported from exposure to ethylene oxide (HSDB , 1996). In human volunteers, sensitization appeared at points of previous contact and required 19 to 20 days to develop; sensitization can also occur from contact with ethylene oxide-contaminated medical equipment (Hayes & Laws, 1991).

Residual ethylene oxide in hemodialysis apparatus has been implicated as the cause of acute anaphylactoid reactions (Carvana, 1985; Bommer & Ritz, 1987). The mechanism is thought to involve hypersensitivity to ethylene oxide rather than a complement-dependent anaphylactoid reaction (Bommer & Ritz, 1987; Lemke et al, 1990).

Patients with so-called dialysis hypersensitivity syndrome have elevated levels of IgE specific for ethylene oxide-altered albumin (Grammer, 1987). In a survey of chronic hemodialysis patients, 9% had positive skin tests to ethylene oxide and 12% had positive RAST tests for antibodies to ethylene oxide (Dolovich et al, 1984). Persons with high RAST values are at risk for anaphylactoid reactions during dialysis (Rumpf et al, 1985).

Decreased hemoglobin concentrations and lymphocytosis were seen in a subgroup of workers with high-level exposure to ethylene oxide (HSDB , 1996).

Chronic exposure to ethylene oxide has been associated with polyneuropathies of the sensory and motor type. Symptoms include numbness of the feet, leg buckling, weakness and incoordination of lower extremities, tingling of extremities, muscle cramps, absent or decreased reflexes, slurred speech, ataxia, nystagmus, nervousness, difficulty in sleeping, stocking and glove sensory loss, and loss of Achilles reflex (Bingham et al, 2001; Estrin et al, 1990; Finelli et al, 1983; Goldfrank, 1998).

Symptoms of multiple neuropathy were noted in 4 of 6 workers chronically exposed to ethylene oxide in a Japanese factory producing medical appliances. Symptoms noted were sensory disturbance of lower limbs gradually expanding to upper limbs and other parts of the body, irregular gait, posterior column symptoms, motor neuron symptoms, and cranial nerve and autonomic nerve disturbance. When workers were removed from ethylene oxide exposure, the symptoms disappeared (ACGIH, 1991).

Polyneuropathies of both sensory and motor type were seen in a group of workers using ethylene oxide to sterilize medical appliances; one patient had visual hallucinations and delirium (Fukushima, 1987). A group of 8 hospital workers exposed to ethylene oxide performed more poorly in tests of hand-eye coordination, memory, cognition, attention, and psychomotor speed than a matched unexposed control group (Estrin, 1987; Estrin et al, 1990). Neuropsychological impairment has been reported in hospital workers exposed to ethylene oxide (Klees et al, 1990; Brashear et al, 1996).

The neuropathies were consistent with a "dying-back" axonopathy and secondary demyelination, and were reversible in 1 to 7 months once exposure ceased (De Freitas et al, 1991; Gross et al, 1979; Hayes & Laws, 1991; Hathaway et al, 1996).

Acute encephalopathy has been reported in one patient (Gross et al, 1979), and memory and cognitive problems in another (Crystal et al, 1988).

Excess mortality due to diseases of the circulatory system occurred in workers exposed to high levels of ethylene oxide (JEF Reynolds , 1995). Increased mortality from cardiovascular diseases and violent deaths was seen in workers exposed to ethylene oxide and also to piperazine, urethane, formaldehyde and organic solvents (Hagmar, 1987).

A separate study found no excess deaths from cardiovascular disease among 2876 male and female workers in the manufacturing and use of ethylene oxide in England and Wales (Gardner et al, 1989).

Lens opacities and cataracts were seen in 19 out of 55, and 6 of 21 persons chronically exposed to ethylene oxide in hospital sterilization units, respectively (Deschamps, 1990). Cataracts developed in men who had been working on a leaking sterilizer, and an epidemiological study found an increased incidence of cataracts in an exposed population (Bingham et al, 2001; Jay et al, 1982).

The pattern of toxicity from repeated exposures to laboratory animals has been similar to effects seen in humans. Exposure of rats to 100 ppm ethylene oxide for 6 hours per day for 6 months produced no apparent ill effects (Army Chemical Center, 1955). Daily oral doses of 30 mg/kg or less had no apparent adverse effect in rats exposed for 30 days (Hayes & Laws, 1991). A total of 127 7-hour exposures to 49 ppm had no apparent effects in rats, mice, rabbits, or monkeys (Hayes & Laws, 1991). Slight anemia was seen in dogs exposed to 100 ppm for 6 months (ACGIH, 1991).

Repeated exposure to ethylene oxide at 225 ppm for 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for up to 10 weeks produced depressions in hematocrit, red cell count, hemoglobin, and bone marrow cellularity (Popp, 1986). Mice exposed to 250 ppm for 5 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 10 weeks had small decreases in red blood cell count, packed cell volume, and hemoglobin; neurological effects including abnormal pinch and righting reflexes, locomotion, and posture were also seen (Hayes & Laws, 1991). Central-peripheral distal axonal degeneration developed in rats exposed to 250 ppm, 5 times per week, for 9 months (Ohnishi et al, 1985).

A concentration of 357 ppm for 7 hours per day and a maximum of 123 exposures caused marked growth depression in rats, mice, monkeys and rabbits; the main cause of death was secondary respiratory infection (Hayes & Laws, 1991). Reversible sensory and motor polyneuropathy and muscle atrophy developed in the hindquarters of rats, rabbits, and monkeys exposed to 357 ppm for 7 hours per day for a maximum of 123 exposures (Hayes & Laws, 1991). Ataxia with axonal degeneration of myelinated fibers was seen in the hindlimbs of rats exposed to 500 ppm for 6 hours per day for 13 weeks (Hayes & Laws, 1991).

Two or three days of exposure to 841 ppm for 7 hours per day to rats and guinea pigs produced pulmonary congestion, hemorrhage and edema, fatty degeneration in the liver, kidney damage (cloudy swelling of the convoluted tubules), and fatty vacuoles in the adrenal cortex (Hayes & Laws, 1991).

Skeletal muscle atrophy, but not sciatic neuropathology, was seen in rats exposed to 100 ppm ethylene oxide for 7 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 104 weeks (Lynch et al, 1984a).

-FIRST AID

FIRST AID AND PREHOSPITAL TREATMENT

SUMMARY -

EMESIS - Oral exposure to ethylene oxide is unusual. Because of the volatility of the liquid, and the extreme reactivity of ethylene oxide, it is questionable whether emesis would be of value. Activated charcoal may be of more benefit.

ACTIVATED CHARCOAL -

PREHOSPITAL ACTIVATED CHARCOAL ADMINISTRATION

Consider prehospital administration of activated charcoal as an aqueous slurry in patients with a potentially toxic ingestion who are awake and able to protect their airway. Activated charcoal is most effective when administered within one hour of ingestion. Administration in the prehospital setting has the potential to significantly decrease the time from toxin ingestion to activated charcoal administration, although it has not been shown to affect outcome (Alaspaa et al, 2005; Thakore & Murphy, 2002; Spiller & Rogers, 2002).

In patients who are at risk for the abrupt onset of seizures or mental status depression, activated charcoal should not be administered in the prehospital setting, due to the risk of aspiration in the event of spontaneous emesis.
The addition of flavoring agents (cola drinks, chocolate milk, cherry syrup) to activated charcoal improves the palatability for children and may facilitate successful administration (Guenther Skokan et al, 2001; Dagnone et al, 2002).

CHARCOAL DOSE

Use a minimum of 240 milliliters of water per 30 grams charcoal (FDA, 1985). Optimum dose not established; usual dose is 25 to 100 grams in adults and adolescents; 25 to 50 grams in children aged 1 to 12 years (or 0.5 to 1 gram/kilogram body weight) ; and 0.5 to 1 gram/kilogram in infants up to 1 year old (Chyka et al, 2005).

Routine use of a cathartic with activated charcoal is NOT recommended as there is no evidence that cathartics reduce drug absorption and cathartics are known to cause adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, electrolyte imbalances and occasionally hypotension (None Listed, 2004).

ADVERSE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS

Complications: emesis, aspiration (Chyka et al, 2005). Aspiration may be complicated by acute respiratory failure, ARDS, bronchiolitis obliterans or chronic lung disease (Golej et al, 2001; Graff et al, 2002; Pollack et al, 1981; Harris & Filandrinos, 1993; Elliot et al, 1989; Rau et al, 1988; Golej et al, 2001; Graff et al, 2002). Refer to the ACTIVATED CHARCOAL/TREATMENT management for further information.
Contraindications: unprotected airway (increases risk/severity of aspiration) , nonfunctioning gastrointestinal tract, uncontrolled vomiting, and ingestion of most hydrocarbons (Chyka et al, 2005).

-MEDICAL TREATMENT

LIFE SUPPORT

Support respiratory and cardiovascular function.

SUMMARY

FIRST AID - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)

Move victim to fresh air.
Call 911 or emergency medical service.
Give artificial respiration if victim is not breathing.
Do not use mouth-to-mouth method if victim ingested or inhaled the substance; give artificial respiration with the aid of a pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other proper respiratory medical device.
Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.
Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.
In case of contact with substance, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.
In case of contact with liquefied gas, thaw frosted parts with lukewarm water.
In case of burns, immediately cool affected skin for as long as possible with cold water. Do not remove clothing if adhering to skin.
Keep victim warm and quiet.
Keep victim under observation.
Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed.
Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves.

FIRST AID

FIRST AID

EYE EXPOSURE - Immediately wash the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately. Primary eye protection (spectacles or goggles), as defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), should be used when working with this chemical. Face shields should only be worn over primary eye protection.

Contact lens use is not recommended when working with this chemical. If contact lenses are worn, then appropriate eye and face protection devices must be used. OSHA emphasizes that dusty and/or chemical environments may represent an additional hazard to contact lens wearers.

DERMAL EXPOSURE - Immediately flush the contaminated skin with water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water. Get medical attention promptly.
INHALATION EXPOSURE - Move the exposed person to fresh air at once. If breathing has stopped, perform artificial respiration. Keep the affected person warm and at rest. Get medical attention as soon as possible.
ORAL EXPOSURE (LIQUID) - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.
TARGET ORGANS - Eyes, skin, respiratory system, liver, central nervous system, blood, kidneys, and reproductive system (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 2007; Chemsoft(R) , 2000).

INHALATION EXPOSURE

INHALATION: Move patient to fresh air. Monitor for respiratory distress. If cough or difficulty breathing develops, evaluate for respiratory tract irritation, bronchitis, or pneumonitis. Administer oxygen and assist ventilation as required. Treat bronchospasm with an inhaled beta2-adrenergic agonist. Consider systemic corticosteroids in patients with significant bronchospasm.
If bronchospasm and wheezing occur, consider treatment with inhaled sympathomimetic agents.
ACUTE LUNG INJURY: Maintain ventilation and oxygenation and evaluate with frequent arterial blood gases and/or pulse oximetry monitoring. Early use of PEEP and mechanical ventilation may be needed.
SEIZURES: Administer a benzodiazepine; DIAZEPAM (ADULT: 5 to 10 mg IV initially; repeat every 5 to 20 minutes as needed. CHILD: 0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg IV over 2 to 5 minutes; up to a maximum of 10 mg/dose. May repeat dose every 5 to 10 minutes as needed) or LORAZEPAM (ADULT: 2 to 4 mg IV initially; repeat every 5 to 10 minutes as needed, if seizures persist. CHILD: 0.05 to 0.1 mg/kg IV over 2 to 5 minutes, up to a maximum of 4 mg/dose; may repeat in 5 to 15 minutes as needed, if seizures continue).

Consider phenobarbital or propofol if seizures recur after diazepam 30 mg (adults) or 10 mg (children greater than 5 years).
Monitor for hypotension, dysrhythmias, respiratory depression, and need for endotracheal intubation. Evaluate for hypoglycemia, electrolyte disturbances, and hypoxia.

DERMAL EXPOSURE

DECONTAMINATION: Remove contaminated clothing and jewelry and place them in plastic bags. Wash exposed areas with soap and water for 10 to 15 minutes with gentle sponging to avoid skin breakdown. A physician may need to examine the area if irritation or pain persists (Burgess et al, 1999).
Treat dermal irritation or burns with standard topical therapy. Patients developing dermal hypersensitivity reactions may require treatment with systemic or topical corticosteroids or antihistamines.
If frostbite has occurred, DO NOT rub the affected areas or attempt to remove frozen clothing from affected areas. Tepid or warm water may be applied in the pre-hospital setting.
PREHOSPITAL

Rewarming of a localized area should only be considered if the risk of refreezing is unlikely. Avoid rubbing the frozen area which may cause further damage to the area (Grieve et al, 2011; Hallam et al, 2010).

REWARMING

Do not institute rewarming unless complete rewarming can be assured; refreezing thawed tissue increases tissue damage. Place affected area in a water bath with a temperature of 40 to 42 degrees Celsius for 15 to 30 minutes until thawing is complete. The bath should be large enough to permit complete immersion of the injured part, avoiding contact with the sides of the bath. A whirlpool bath would be ideal. Some authors suggest a mild antibacterial (ie, chlorhexidine, hexachlorophene or povidone-iodine) be added to the bath water. Tissues should be thoroughly rewarmed and pliable; the skin will appear a red-purple color (Grieve et al, 2011; Hallam et al, 2010; Murphy et al, 2000).
Correct systemic hypothermia which can cause cold diuresis due to suppression of antidiuretic hormone; consider IV fluids (Grieve et al, 2011).
Rewarming may be associated with increasing acute pain, requiring narcotic analgesics.
For severe frostbite, clinical trials have shown that pentoxifylline, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, can enhance tissue viability by increasing blood flow and reducing platelet activity (Hallam et al, 2010).

WOUND CARE

Digits should be separated by sterile absorbent cotton; no constrictive dressings should be used. Protective dressings should be changed twice per day.
Perform twice daily hydrotherapy for 30 to 45 minutes in warm water at 40 degrees Celsius. This helps debride devitalized tissue and maintain range of motion. Keep the area warm and dry between treatments (Hallam et al, 2010; Murphy et al, 2000).
The injured extremities should be elevated and should not be allowed to bear weight.
In patients at risk for infection of necrotic tissue, prophylactic antibiotics and tetanus toxoid have been recommended by some authors (Hallam et al, 2010; Murphy et al, 2000).
Non-tense clear blisters should be left intact due to the risk of infection; tense or hemorrhagic blisters may be carefully aspirated in a setting where aseptic technique is provided (Hallam et al, 2010).
Further surgical debridement should be delayed until mummification demarcation has occurred (60 to 90 days). Spontaneous amputation may occur.
Analgesics may be required during the rewarming phase; however, patients with severe pain should be evaluated for vasospasm.
IMAGING: Arteriography and noninvasive vascular techniques (e.g., plain radiography, laser Doppler studies, digital plethysmography, infrared thermography, isotope scanning), have been useful in evaluating the extent of vasospasm after thawing and assessing whether debridement is needed (Hallam et al, 2010). In cases of severe frostbite, Technetium 99 (triple phase scanning) and MRI angiography have been shown to be the most useful to assess injury and determine the extent or need for surgical debridement (Hallam et al, 2010).
TOPICAL THERAPY: Topical aloe vera may decrease tissue destruction and should be applied every 6 hours (Murphy et al, 2000).
IBUPROFEN THERAPY: Ibuprofen, a thromboxane inhibitor, may help limit inflammatory damage and reduce tissue loss (Grieve et al, 2011; Murphy et al, 2000). DOSE: 400 mg orally every 12 hours is recommended (Hallam et al, 2010).
THROMBOLYTIC THERAPY: Thrombolysis (intra-arterial or intravenous thrombolytic agents) may be beneficial in those patients at risk to lose a digit or a limb, if done within the first 24 hours of exposure. The use of tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) to clear microvascular thromboses can restore arterial blood flow, but should be accompanied by close monitoring including angiography or technetium scanning to evaluate the injury and to evaluate the effects of t-PA administration. Potential risk of the procedure includes significant tissue edema that can lead to a rise in interstitial pressures resulting in compartment syndrome (Grieve et al, 2011).
CONTROVERSIAL: Adjunct pharmacological agents (ie, heparin, vasodilators, prostacyclins, prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors, dextran) are controversial and not routinely recommended. The role of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, sympathectomy remains unclear (Grieve et al, 2011).
CHRONIC PAIN: Vasomotor dysfunction can produce chronic pain. Amitriptyline has been used in some patients; some patients may need a referral for pain management. Inability to tolerate the cold (in the affected area) has been observed following a single episode of frostbite (Hallam et al, 2010).
MORBIDITIES: Frostbite can produce localized osteoporosis and possible bone loss following a severe case. These events may take a year or more to develop. Children may be at greater risk to develop more severe events (ie, early arthritis) (Hallam et al, 2010).

EYE EXPOSURE

DECONTAMINATION: Remove contact lenses and irrigate exposed eyes with copious amounts of room temperature 0.9% saline or water for at least 15 minutes. If irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation, or photophobia persist after 15 minutes of irrigation, the patient should be seen in a healthcare facility.
If eye tissue is frozen, seek ophthalmologic consultation immediately.

ORAL EXPOSURE

Because of the potential for gastrointestinal tract irritation or seizures, DO NOT induce emesis.
PREHOSPITAL ACTIVATED CHARCOAL ADMINISTRATION

Consider prehospital administration of activated charcoal as an aqueous slurry in patients with a potentially toxic ingestion who are awake and able to protect their airway. Activated charcoal is most effective when administered within one hour of ingestion. Administration in the prehospital setting has the potential to significantly decrease the time from toxin ingestion to activated charcoal administration, although it has not been shown to affect outcome (Alaspaa et al, 2005; Thakore & Murphy, 2002; Spiller & Rogers, 2002).

In patients who are at risk for the abrupt onset of seizures or mental status depression, activated charcoal should not be administered in the prehospital setting, due to the risk of aspiration in the event of spontaneous emesis.
The addition of flavoring agents (cola drinks, chocolate milk, cherry syrup) to activated charcoal improves the palatability for children and may facilitate successful administration (Guenther Skokan et al, 2001; Dagnone et al, 2002).

ACTIVATED CHARCOAL: Administer charcoal as a slurry (240 mL water/30 g charcoal). Usual dose: 25 to 100 g in adults/adolescents, 25 to 50 g in children (1 to 12 years), and 1 g/kg in infants less than 1 year old.
Carefully observe patients with ingestion exposure for the development of any systemic signs or symptoms and administer symptomatic treatment as necessary.
SEIZURES: Administer a benzodiazepine; DIAZEPAM (ADULT: 5 to 10 mg IV initially; repeat every 5 to 20 minutes as needed. CHILD: 0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg IV over 2 to 5 minutes; up to a maximum of 10 mg/dose. May repeat dose every 5 to 10 minutes as needed) or LORAZEPAM (ADULT: 2 to 4 mg IV initially; repeat every 5 to 10 minutes as needed, if seizures persist. CHILD: 0.05 to 0.1 mg/kg IV over 2 to 5 minutes, up to a maximum of 4 mg/dose; may repeat in 5 to 15 minutes as needed, if seizures continue).

Consider phenobarbital or propofol if seizures recur after diazepam 30 mg (adults) or 10 mg (children greater than 5 years).
Monitor for hypotension, dysrhythmias, respiratory depression, and need for endotracheal intubation. Evaluate for hypoglycemia, electrolyte disturbances, and hypoxia.

-RANGE OF TOXICITY

MINIMUM LETHAL EXPOSURE

Ethylene oxide is fatal within a few minutes at a concentration of 50,000 to 100,000 ppm (OHM/TADS , 2002).

MAXIMUM TOLERATED EXPOSURE

INHALATION EXPOSURE

Brief exposure to concentrated vapors will cause significant symptoms (Salinas et al, 1981). Maximum tolerated concentration is 100 ppm. At 3000 ppm, ethylene oxide may be tolerated for 60 minutes (OHM/TADS , 2002).
Chronic exposure to eight-hour time-weighted average of 2.4 ppm for 10 years resulted in cognitive impairment and subclinical sensory neuropathy (Crystal et al, 1988).
Chronic exposure to ethylene oxide can result in headache, numbness of the extremities, muscular weakness, impaired gait, skin sensitization, numbing of the sense of smell and taste, staggering, increased fatigability, and an increased susceptibility for respiratory infection; these symptoms usually clear within months after exposure to ethylene oxide has ended. Long-term exposure has also been linked to increased rates of leukemia (ACGIH, 1991; Baselt, 1997; Baselt, 2000; Bingham et al, 2001; Hathaway et al, 1996; Hayes & Laws, 1991).
Factory workers who were reported to have chronic ethylene oxide poisoning suffered from symptoms of multiple neuropathy, which consisted of sensory disturbance of the legs and feet, a diminished sense of vibration in the feet and irregular gait; this gradually spread to other parts of the body. When the workers were moved away from all exposure to ethylene oxide, the symptoms cleared (ACGIH, 1991; Hathaway et al, 1996).
In humans, exposure to 500 to 700 ppm for 2 to 3 minutes resulted in nausea, vomiting, headache, disorientation and fluid in the lungs, followed by seizures. Volunteers breathing a concentration of 2,500 ppm experienced slight irritation and at 12,500 ppm, experienced definite irritation of the respiratory tract within 10 seconds (Pohanish, 2002). Symptoms may not occur for hours after inhalation.

DERMAL EXPOSURE

In human volunteers, a 40- to 60-percent solution produced second-degree burns in as little as 0.75 to 1.0 minutes. A 1-percent solution produced no effects after 20 to 25 minutes, and second degree burns after 75 minutes or more. Undiluted ethylene oxide evaporated rapidly and resulted in thermal injury. Three of eight volunteers developed skin sensitization (Hayes & Laws, 1991).

Carcinogenicity Ratings for CAS75-21-8 :

ACGIH (American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, 2010): A2 ; Listed as: Ethylene oxide

A2 :Suspected Human Carcinogen: Human data are accepted as adequate in quality but are conflicting or insufficient to classify the agent as a confirmed human carcinogen; OR, the agent is carcinogenic in experimental animals at dose(s), by route(s) of exposure, at site(s), of histologic type(s), or by mechanism(s) considered relevant to worker exposure. The A2 is used primarily when there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals with relevance to humans.

ACGIH (American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, 2010): Not Listed ; Listed as: Ethylene oxide
EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2011): Not Listed
IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), 2016; International Agency for Research on Cancer, 2015; IARC Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 2010; IARC Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 2010a; IARC Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 2008; IARC Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 2007; IARC Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 2006; IARC, 2004): 1 ; Listed as: Ethylene oxide

1 : The agent (mixture) is carcinogenic to humans. The exposure circumstance entails exposures that are carcinogenic to humans. This category is used when there is sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in humans. Exceptionally, an agent (mixture) may be placed in this category when evidence of carcinogenicity in humans is less than sufficient but there is sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals and strong evidence in exposed humans that the agent (mixture) acts through a relevant mechanism of carcinogenicity.

NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 2007): Ca ; Listed as: Ethylene oxide

Ca : NIOSH considers this substance to be a potential occupational carcinogen (See Appendix A in the NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards).

MAK (DFG, 2002): Category 2 ; Listed as: Ethylene oxide

Category 2 : Substances that are considered to be carcinogenic for man because sufficient data from long-term animal studies or limited evidence from animal studies substantiated by evidence from epidemiological studies indicate that they can make a significant contribution to cancer risk. Limited data from animal studies can be supported by evidence that the substance causes cancer by a mode of action that is relevant to man and by results of in vitro tests and short-term animal studies.

NTP (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, National Toxicology Project ): Not Listed

TOXICITY AND RISK ASSESSMENT VALUES

EPA IRIS

EPA Risk Assessment Values for CAS75-21-8 (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2011):

Not Listed

TOXICITY VALUES

ACGIH, 1991 Bingham et al, 2001 Hayes & Laws, 1991 Hathaway et al, 1996 ITI, 1995 OHM/TADS, 2002 RTECS, 2002
- LC50- (INHALATION)DOG:
- LC50- (INHALATION)GUINEA_PIG:
- LC50- (INHALATION)HUMAN:
- LC50- (INHALATION)MOUSE:
- LC50- (INHALATION)RAT:
- LD50- (INTRAVENOUS)DOG:
- LD50- (ORAL)GUINEA_PIG:
- LD50- (INTRAPERITONEAL)MOUSE:
- LD50- (INTRAVENOUS)MOUSE:
- LD50- (INTRAPERITONEAL)RABBIT:
- LD50- (INTRAVENOUS)RABBIT:
- LD50- (ORAL)RABBIT:
- LD50- (SUBCUTANEOUS)RABBIT:
- LD50- (INTRAVENOUS)RAT:
- LD50- (ORAL)RAT:
- LD50- (SUBCUTANEOUS)RAT:
- LDLo- (SUBCUTANEOUS)CAT:
- LDLo- (INTRAVENOUS)DOG:
- LDLo- (INTRAVENOUS)RABBIT:
- TCLo- (INHALATION)DOG:
- TCLo- (INHALATION)HUMAN:
- TCLo- (INHALATION)MOUSE:
- TCLo- (INHALATION)PRIMATE:
- TCLo- (INHALATION)RAT:
- TD- (SUBCUTANEOUS)MOUSE:
- TD- (ORAL)RAT:
- TDLo- (INTRAPERITONEAL)MOUSE:
- TDLo- (INTRAVENOUS)MOUSE:
- TDLo- (SUBCUTANEOUS)MOUSE:
- TDLo- (INTRAVENOUS)RABBIT:
- TDLo- (ORAL)RAT:

CALCULATIONS

AMBIENT CONVERSIONS

1 ppm = 1.80 mg/m(3) (at 25 degrees C and 760 mmHg) (Bingham et al, 2001)
1 mg/L = 555 ppm (at 25 degrees C and 760 mmHg) (Bingham et al, 2001)

-STANDARDS AND LABELS

WORKPLACE STANDARDS

ACGIH TLV Values for CAS75-21-8 (American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, 2010):

Editor's Note: The listed values are recommendations or guidelines developed by ACGIH(R) to assist in the control of health hazards. They should only be used, interpreted and applied by individuals trained in industrial hygiene. Before applying these values, it is imperative to read the introduction to each section in the current TLVs(R) and BEI(R) Book and become familiar with the constraints and limitations to their use. Always consult the Documentation of the TLVs(R) and BEIs(R) before applying these recommendations and guidelines.

Adopted Value

Ethylene oxide

TLV:

TLV-TWA: 1 ppm
TLV-STEL:
TLV-Ceiling:

Notations and Endnotes:

Carcinogenicity Category: A2
Codes: Not Listed
Definitions:

A2: Suspected Human Carcinogen: Human data are accepted as adequate in quality but are conflicting or insufficient to classify the agent as a confirmed human carcinogen; OR, the agent is carcinogenic in experimental animals at dose(s), by route(s) of exposure, at site(s), of histologic type(s), or by mechanism(s) considered relevant to worker exposure. The A2 is used primarily when there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals with relevance to humans.

TLV Basis - Critical Effect(s): Cancer; CNS impair
Molecular Weight: 44.05

For gases and vapors, to convert the TLV from ppm to mg/m(3):

[(TLV in ppm)(gram molecular weight of substance)]/24.45

For gases and vapors, to convert the TLV from mg/m(3) to ppm:

[(TLV in mg/m(3))(24.45)]/gram molecular weight of substance

Under Study

Ethylene oxide

TLV:

TLV-TWA:
TLV-STEL:
TLV-Ceiling:

Notations and Endnotes:

Carcinogenicity Category: Not Listed
Codes: Not Listed
Definitions: Not Listed

TLV Basis - Critical Effect(s):
Molecular Weight:

For gases and vapors, to convert the TLV from ppm to mg/m(3):

[(TLV in ppm)(gram molecular weight of substance)]/24.45

For gases and vapors, to convert the TLV from mg/m(3) to ppm:

[(TLV in mg/m(3))(24.45)]/gram molecular weight of substance

AIHA WEEL Values for CAS75-21-8 (AIHA, 2006):

Not Listed

NIOSH REL and IDLH Values for CAS75-21-8 (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 2007):

Listed as: Ethylene oxide
REL:

TWA: <0.1 ppm (0.18 mg/m(3))
STEL:
Ceiling: 5 ppm (9 mg/m(3)) [10-min/day]
Carcinogen Listing: (Ca) NIOSH considers this substance to be a potential occupational carcinogen (See Appendix A in the NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards).
Skin Designation: Not Listed
Note(s): See Appendix A

IDLH:

IDLH: 800 ppm
Note(s): Ca

Ca: NIOSH considers this substance to be a potential occupational carcinogen (See Appendix A).

OSHA PEL Values for CAS75-21-8 (U.S. Occupational Safety, and Health Administration (OSHA), 2010):

Listed as: Ethylene oxide; see 29 CFR 1910.1047
Table Z-1 for Ethylene oxide; see 29 CFR 1910.1047:

8-hour TWA:

ppm:

Parts of vapor or gas per million parts of contaminated air by volume at 25 degrees C and 760 torr.

mg/m3:

Milligrams of substances per cubic meter of air. When entry is in this column only, the value is exact; when listed with a ppm entry, it is approximate.

Ceiling Value:
Skin Designation: No
Notation(s): Not Listed

OSHA List of Highly Hazardous Chemicals, Toxics, and Reactives for CAS75-21-8 (U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 2010):

Threshold Quantity, in pounds:5000

ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS

EPA CERCLA, Hazardous Substances and Reportable Quantities for CAS75-21-8 (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2010):

Listed as: Oxirane
Final Reportable Quantity, in pounds (kilograms):

10 (4.54)

Additional Information:
Listed as: Ethylene oxide
Final Reportable Quantity, in pounds (kilograms):

10 (4.54)

Additional Information:

EPA CERCLA, Hazardous Substances and Reportable Quantities, Radionuclides for CAS75-21-8 (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2010):

Not Listed

EPA RCRA Hazardous Waste Number for CAS75-21-8 (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2010b):

Listed as: Ethylene oxide
P or U series number: U115
Footnote:
Listed as: Oxirane
P or U series number: U115
Footnote:
Editor's Note: The D, F, and K series waste numbers and Appendix VIII to Part 261 -- Hazardous Constituents were not included. Please refer to 40 CFR Part 261.

EPA SARA Title III, Extremely Hazardous Substance List for CAS75-21-8 (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2010):

Listed as: Ethylene Oxide
Reportable Quantity, in pounds: 10

Only the statutory or final RQ is shown. For more information, see 40 CFR table 302.4.

Threshold Planning Quantity, in pounds:

1000
Amount necessary to be covered by this standard. See 40 CFR 355.30.

Note(s): f

f: Chemicals on the original list that do not meet toxicity criteria but because of their acute lethality, high production volume and known risk are considered chemicals of concern ("Other chemicals"). (November 17, 1986, and February 15, 1990.)

EPA SARA Title III, Community Right-to-Know for CAS75-21-8 (40 CFR 372.65, 2006; 40 CFR 372.28, 2006):

Listed as: Ethylene oxide
Effective Date for Reporting Under 40 CFR 372.30: 1/1/87
Lower Thresholds for Chemicals of Special Concern under 40 CFR 372.28:

DOT List of Marine Pollutants for CAS75-21-8 (49 CFR 172.101 - App. B, 2005):

Not Listed

EPA TSCA Inventory for CAS75-21-8 (EPA, 2005):

Listed as: Oxirane

SHIPPING REGULATIONS

SURFACE

DOT -- Table of Hazardous Materials and Special Provisions for UN/NA Number 1040 (49 CFR 172.101, 2005):

Hazardous materials descriptions and proper shipping name: Ethylene oxide or Ethylene oxide with nitrogen up to a total pressure of 1MPa (10 bar) at 50 degrees C

Symbol(s): Not Listed
Hazard class or Division: 2.3

2.3: Poisonous gas. See 49 CFR section 173.115 for definitions.

Identification Number: UN1040
Packing Group: Not Listed
Label(s) required (if not excepted): 2.3, 2.1

2.3: Poison Gas.
2.1: Flammable Gas.

Special Provisions: 4, T50, TP20

4: This material is poisonous by inhalation (see sxn. 171.8 of this subchapter) in Hazard Zone D (see sxn. 173.116(a) of this subchapter), and must be described as an inhalation hazard under the provisions of this subchapter.
T50: Applicable liquefied compressed gases are authorized to be transported in portable tanks in accordance with the requirements of sxn. 173.313 of this subchapter.
TP20: This hazardous material must only be transported in insulated tanks under a nitrogen blanket.

Packaging Authorizations (refer to 49 CFR 173.***):

Exceptions: None
Non-bulk packaging: 323
Bulk packaging: 323

Quantity Limitations:

Passenger aircraft or railcar: Forbidden
Cargo aircraft only: Forbidden

Vessel Stowage Requirements:

Vessel stowage location: D

D: The material must be stowed "on deck only" on a cargo vessel and on a passenger vessel carrying a number of passengers limited to not more than the larger of 25 passengers or one passenger per each 3 m of overall vessel length, but the material is prohibited on passenger vessels in which the limiting number of passengers is exceeded.

Vessel stowage other: 40

40: Stow "clear of living quarters".

ICAO International Shipping Name for UN1040 (ICAO, 2002):

Proper Shipping Name: Ethylene oxide
UN Number: 1040
Proper Shipping Name: Ethylene oxide with nitrogen up to a total pressure of 1 MPa at 50 degrees C
UN Number: 1040

LABELS

NFPA

NFPA Hazard Ratings for CAS75-21-8 (NFPA, 2002):

Listed as: Ethylene Oxide
Hazard Ratings:

Health Rating (Blue): 3

(3) Seriously toxic material. Short term exposure could cause serious temporary or residual injury even though prompt medical treatment is given. Includes known or suspect small animal carcinogens, mutagens, or teratogens.

Flammability Rating (Red): 4

(4) Extremely flammable. Materials which will rapidly vaporize at normal pressure and temperature and will burn readily. Including: gases, cryogenic materials, any liquid or gaseous material having a flash point below 73 degrees F and a boiling point below 100 degrees F, and materials which can form explosive mixtures with air.

Instability Rating (Yellow): 3

(3) Materials which in themselves are capable of detonation but which require a strong initiating source, or which must be heated first. This rating includes materials which are shock sensitive at elevated temperatures, and which react explosively with water without requiring heat.

Oxidizer/Water-Reactive Designation: Not Listed

-HANDLING AND STORAGE

SUMMARY

INDUSTRIAL CHEMICALS

Ethylene oxide is an extremely flammable, highly reactive, colorless gas at room temperature and normal pressure. It becomes a stable, clear liquid at 10.4 degrees C (50.7 degrees F) and 101 kPa (14.7 psia), and may polymerize violently (ACGIH, 1991; Ashford, 2001; Budavari, 1996; CGA, 1999; Bingham et al, 2001; Hathaway et al, 1996; ILO, 1998).
It is also a flammable and reactive gas that may ignite easily in the presence of heat, light or sparks (ACGIH, 1991; Bingham et al, 2001; Pohanish, 2002).

HANDLING

Precautions for carcinogenic compounds should be exercised (HSDB , 2002).

Do not handle ethylene oxide unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Keep sources of ignition (such as smoking, open flames, and sparks) away from areas where ethylene oxide is used, handled, or stored. Only non-sparking tools should be used around ethylene oxide, especially when opening and closing containers (HSDB , 2002; Pohanish, 2002). Keep containers individually bonded and grounded when ethylene oxide liquid is poured or handled (Chemsoft(R) , 2000).

STORAGE

CONTAINER

Ethylene oxide should be stored in closed containers to avoid moisture (ethylene oxide reacts with water). Steel and stainless steel are recommended for equipment and piping used with ethylene oxide. Ground and bond metal containers and lines. Ensure that drums are equipped with self-closing valves, pressure vacuum bungs, and safety relief vents. Also ensure that all valves, traps, and lines are clear and in good working order to avoid reverse flow and the hazard of reactions within the storage containers (CGA, 1999; CHRIS , 2002; HSDB , 2002).
Maximum filling limits (CGA, 1999):
- In cylinders: containers should not be liquid full below 82 degrees C (180 degrees F)
- In 1A1 steel drums: containers should not be liquid full below 85 degrees C (185 degrees F)

ROOM/CABINET RECOMMENDATIONS

It should be stored below 86 degrees F. Outside storage should be away from buildings and shielded from sun heat. Indoor facilities should have cooling systems and be protected by water-spray systems. Containers of ethylene oxide should be protected from damage and stored in a well-ventilated area, away from sparks and combustible materials. Store as little volume as possible indoors in a standard flammable liquids room (ITI, 1995; OHM/TADS , 2002; Pohanish, 2002).
Rooms containing ethylene oxide should be constructed with explosion-proof electrical equipment and fittings (Pohanish, 2002).
Ethylene oxide must be stored to avoid contact with any amount of acid (such as sulfuric or nitric acids), alkalies, aluminum or iron oxide, and catalytic anhydrous chlorides of aluminum, iron, or tin, and should be kept isolated from oxidizers (such as chlorates, nitrates, perchlorates, permanganates, and peroxides) due to the possibility of explosion (Pohanish, 2002).

INCOMPATIBILITIES

Ethylene oxide is incompatible with acids, alkalis, active catalysts, oxidizers, copper, silver, magnesium and their alloys (CGA, 1999; Pohanish & Greene, 1997; Pohanish, 2002).
This compound may attack certain plastics, rubber or coatings (Pohanish & Greene, 1997).
For more detailed information on reactivities/incompatibilities involving ethylene oxide, see the "Reactivity Hazard" section.

-PERSONAL PROTECTION

SUMMARY

RECOMMENDED PROTECTIVE CLOTHING - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection.
Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible.

Precautions for carcinogens should be exercised (HSDB , 2002).

Ethylene oxide is toxic as both a liquid and a gas. The primary route of exposure is inhalation (it is an inhalation poison), followed by dermal contact with both the liquid and the gas. It is absorbed efficiently into the blood following inhalation exposure. It is distributed rapidly to all organs and tissues of the body. It is irritating to the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin. Wear appropriate protective gear to avoid contact with ethylene oxide and immediately remove protective gear that becomes wet or contaminated to avoid fire hazard. Wash any skin that came in contact with ethylene oxide with copious amount of water or saline (signs of skin damage may not appear for up to 5 hours after exposure) (Baxter et al, 2000; CGA, 1999; CHRIS , 2002; HSDB , 2002; Zenz, 1994).

The odor detection level is at least 500 ppm and is therefore not useful as a warning signal.

EYE/FACE PROTECTION

Ethylene oxide is toxic as both a liquid and a gas. Excessive exposure to the vapor causes irritation of the eyes. Eye protection should be worn to protect the eyes from splashes and vapors. If this chemical should contact the face area, immediately wash the skin to avoid burns (Baxter et al, 2000; Pohanish, 2002). If coming to contact with the eyes, immediately irrigate with copious amount of water for 15 minutes (CGA, 1999).

RESPIRATORY PROTECTION

Refer to "Recommendations for respirator selection" in the NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards on TOMES Plus(R) for respirator information.

PROTECTIVE CLOTHING

CHEMICAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING. Search results for CAS 75-21-8.

All data are compiled from published sources and are NOT recommended specifically by Truven Health Analytics. The appearance of specific manufacturers or products in this section does not represent an endorsement by Truven Health Analytics. No attempt has been made to verify the data presented. All product recommendations should be confirmed with the specific manufacturer for verification of product performance.
CLOTHING

Chlorinated Polyethylene

DuPont Personal Protection

Durables 2

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 80
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 73
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

ILC Dover, Inc.

Chemturion

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 118
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 201
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (ILC Dover, Inc., 1998)

Neoprene

River City

Neoprene splash suits

Degradation Rating: Not Recommended
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Listed
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Listed
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (River City, 1995)

Plastic Laminate

DuPont Personal Protection

CPF 3

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.01
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

CPF 4

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 305
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 1.08
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

Responder

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >180
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): None detected
Notes: liquid
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): None detected
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

Responder Plus

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >180
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): None detected
Notes: liquid
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): None detected
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

Tychem 10,000

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.01
Notes: liquid, tested at 0º C
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: liquid, tested at -70º C
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.02
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

Tychem 7500

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 75
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 2.7
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: liquid, tested at 0º C
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: liquid, tested at -70º C
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

Tychem 9400

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.01
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.01
Notes: liquid, tested at 0º C
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: liquid, tested at -70º C
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

Tychem BR

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.01
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.01
Notes: liquid
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

Tychem F

Degradation Rating: Not Listed
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 65
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 1.4
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (DuPont, 2003)

Tychem LV

Degradation Rating: Not Listed
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.01
Notes: tested at 0 degrees C (liquid)
Citation: (DuPont, 2003)
Degradation Rating: Not Listed
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.01
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2003)

Tychem QC

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Immediate
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 167
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: 10% in HCFC 124
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: liquid, tested at -70º C
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: liquid, tested at 0º C
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: 10% in HCFC 124
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Immediate
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 167
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

Tychem SL

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: liquid, tested at 0º C
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): imm.
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 8.4
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Immediate
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 8.4
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: liquid, tested at -70º C
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

Tychem ThermoPro

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480 (none detected)
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.01
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (DuPont, 2003)

Tychem TK

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.02
Notes: gas, 90%, 10% IN HCFC 12
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.01
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >180
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.02
Notes: liquid, tested at -70º C
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.01
Notes: liquid, tested at 0º C
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.1
Notes: gas
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.01
Notes: liquid
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

ILC Dover, Inc.

Ready 1

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.1
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (ILC Dover, Inc., 1998)

Standard Safety Equipment Company

Mitigator

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.1
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (Standard Safety Equipment, 1995)

Trelleborg-Viking, Inc.

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.1
Notes: gaseous
Citation: (Trelleborg-Viking, Inc., 2001)

Polyvinyl chloride

DuPont Personal Protection

StaSafe GraLite 20

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 13
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 156
Notes: liquid
Citation: (DuPont, 2002)

Polyvinyl Chloride

River City

PVC splash suits

Degradation Rating: Not Recommended
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Listed
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Listed
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (River City, 1995)

Rubber Laminate

Trelleborg-Viking, Inc.

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.1
Notes: gaseous
Citation: (Trelleborg-Viking, Inc., 2001)

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.1
Notes: gaseous
Citation: (Trelleborg-Viking, Inc., 2001)

Teflon Laminate

Mar-Mac Manufacturing, Inc.

Commander Ultrapro

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >180
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.1
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (Mar-Mac Manufacturing, Inc, 1995)

Viton/Butyl

Trelleborg-Viking, Inc.

Super

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.1
Notes: gaseous
Citation: (Trelleborg-Viking, Inc., 2001)

FOOTWEAR

Polyurethane

LaCrosse-Rainfair Safety Products

Purolite

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >60
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Listed
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (LaCrosse-Rainfair, 1997)

Polyvinyl Chloride

LaCrosse-Rainfair Safety Products

Resistor

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >120
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Listed
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (LaCrosse-Rainfair, 1997)

Sureflex

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): <60
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Listed
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (LaCrosse-Rainfair, 1997)

Rubber blend

LaCrosse-Rainfair Safety Products

Economy Short Boot

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): <60
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Listed
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (LaCrosse-Rainfair, 1997)

Onguard Industries

Hazmax

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >120
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.1
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (Bata Shoe Company, 1995)

Servus (Norcross Safety Products)

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >60
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): <0.1
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (Servus, 1995)

GLOVES

Butyl

Best Manufacturing

Butyl 878

Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes of testing)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 189
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 2
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2004)
Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes of testing)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: Tested with Limited Exposure Method (ASTM F 1383)
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2004)

Guardian Manufacturing Group

CP-25

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 173
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 3.53
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (Guardian Manufacturing Group, 2001)

Natural Rubber

Best Manufacturing

Original Nitty Gritty

Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes of testing)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 1
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 500
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2004)
Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes of testing)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: Tested under limited exposure method (ASTM F 1383)
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2004)

Neoprene

Best Manufacturing

Neoprene 6780 Series

Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: gas, tested through limited exposure method (ATSM F 1383)
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2002)
Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 21
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 500
Notes: gas
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2002)

Ultraflex Neoprene 32

Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 7
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 500
Notes: gas
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2002)
Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: gas, tested through limited exposure method (ATSM F 1383)
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2002)

Guardian Manufacturing Group

IN-35

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 40
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): >500
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (Guardian Manufacturing Group, 2001)

MAPA Spontex, Inc.

Chem-ply/N-440

Degradation Rating: Not Tested
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 45
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 9
Notes: 99+%
Citation: (MAPA Professional, 2004)

Nitrile

Best Manufacturing

N-DEX 8005

Degradation Rating: Not Tested
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: gas
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2002)
Degradation Rating: Not Tested
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: gas, tested through limited exposure method (ATSM F 1383)
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2002)

Nitri-Solve 727

Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 17
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 500
Notes: gas
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2002)
Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: gas, tested through limited exposure method (ATSM F 1383)
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2002)

Ultraflex Nitrile 22R

Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes of testing)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: Tested through limited exposure method (ATSM F 1383)
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2004)
Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes of testing)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 12
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Recommended
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2004)

MAPA Spontex, Inc.

Stansolv/A-14

Degradation Rating: Not Tested
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 32
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 126
Notes: 99+%; non-normalized breakthrough
Citation: (MAPA Professional, 2004)

Nitrile+PVC

Best Manufacturing

Hustler 725R

Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 1
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 500
Notes: gas
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2002)
Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: gas, tested through limited exposure method (ATSM F 1383)
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2002)

Plastic Laminate

North -- Safety 4H

Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not reported
Notes: tested at 35 degrees C; 95 degrees F
Citation: (Safety 4, 2002)
Degradation Rating: No Degradation Rating provided
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >240
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not reported
Notes: tested at 21 degrees C; 70 degrees F
Citation: (Safety 4, 2002)

North Safety Products

Silver Shield

Degradation Rating: Excellent
Breakthrough Time (minutes): >480
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): None Detected
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (North, 2002)

Viton over Butyl

Best Manufacturing

Viton #890

Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes of testing)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): 48
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): 200
Notes: Not Listed
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2004)
Degradation Rating: Excellent (after 60 minutes of testing)
Breakthrough Time (minutes): Not Tested
Permeation Rate (mcg/cm2/min): Not Tested
Notes: Tested with limited exposure method (ASTM F 1383)
Citation: (Best Manufacturing, 2004)

GENERAL INFORMATION

This section provides a compilation of chemical resistance information and test data for specific protective clothing products. Chemical resistance information includes both degradation resistance ratings and permeation resistance data. This information is designed to assist in the selection of appropriate protective clothing. Only data on specific products and manufacturers are included. Generic information or recommendations are not provided since significant differences can exist in the chemical resistance for apparent similar product types.
Specific product information is organized by general product type (gloves, garments, and footwear), material type, and manufacturer. The category 'garments' may include totally encapsulating suits, splash suits, as well as other items (e.g., coveralls, jackets, and aprons). Specific manufacturers should be contacted to determine the features of available styles/models.
In addition to chemical resistance information, there are many critical variables in the selection of protective clothing which cannot be represented in this summary of the literature. Some factors to be considered in choosing protective clothing include, but are not limited to: overall clothing integrity, physical hazard resistance, durability, human factors, ease of decontamination, and cost. Overall clothing integrity refers to a specific design's ability to offer consistent protection for all clothing-covered areas of the body. Physical hazards include resisting the effects of abrasion, cuts, tears, and punctures. Human factors entail effects on wearer mobility, visibility, and hearing for garments; dexterity, tactility, and grip for gloves; ankle support and weight for footwear; and, any effect of the clothing on the function of the wearer. There are several variations in the design for gloves, garments, and footwear that affect these factors. Protective clothing must properly be sized and correctly fit the wearer to ensure its proper use and function.
As required in the U.S.A., protective clothing should be selected based on a risk assessment of the workplace. This risk assessment must account for the identification of existing as well as potential hazards and involve the recommendation of protective clothing appropriate for the identified hazards. Therefore, the recommendations in this section should not be used as the sole basis for decisions on choice of protective clothing, but rather should be used as a tool by qualified occupational health and safety professionals or other technically qualified persons in conjunction with a review of all mitigating factors. Consult the OSHA PPE Standard (29 CFR 1910.132 - 1910.138) for regulations and additional guidance regarding the selection and use of protective clothing and equipment. For general information on protective clothing selection, refer to the "PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT - OSHA PUB 3077" document.
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING SELECTION

Determine the type of protective clothing item needed based on a risk assessment (e.g., gloves, garments, footwear).
For high risk situations, choose clothing that covers all parts of the body that may be exposed. In many cases, multiple clothing items will be required. Low risk situations may permit partial body protective clothing. Select protective clothing products that have reported chemical resistance data. High risk situations involving full body clothing or extended chemical contact often require permeation resistance data to determine the barrier effectiveness of materials used in the construction of clothing. Relatively low risk situations, where only splash or incidental exposure occur, may allow use of protective clothing based on degradation or penetration resistance data. Specifics on the interpretation of chemical resistance data are presented below.
Other factors must be considered in addition to chemical resistance. The selected chemical protective clothing item should offer the optimal combination of protection against identified hazards while allowing maximum function and comfort.

INTERPRETATION OF DEGRADATION RATINGS

Degradation refers to physical changes in a material as the result of chemical exposure. Degradation may become evident in visible changes, such as discoloration, swelling, delamination, deterioration, or disintegration. Degradation effects may also be measured by weight change or other changes in a material's physical properties (e.g., strength, elasticity, hardness).
Degradation resistance ratings are provided by manufacturers to rate the amount of degradation that occurs for a particular protective clothing material when contacted by a chemical. All degradation ratings are qualitative and include ratings, such as "EXCELLENT," "GOOD," "FAIR," "POOR," and "NOT RECOMMENDED." There is no standard test method for the measurement of chemical degradation resistance; therefore, manufacturer ratings may be based on different testing approaches. This makes comparison of degradation ratings between manufacturers unreliable.
The use of degradation resistance ratings alone to recommend protective clothing, particularly for high hazard situations, should be avoided. Degradation resistance testing does not directly assess the barrier quality of protective clothing, since materials can show relatively little degradation but still allow either permeation or penetration by a chemical. Degradation resistance ratings can be used to exclude protective clothing materials from consideration. Protective clothing materials with a "NOT RECOMMENDED" degradation resistance rating should never be used.
For some products, the rating "NO PENETRATION" is provided. This refers to penetration resistance test results that are based on a different procedure (American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard Test Method F 903). Penetration resistance testing involves placing a material sample in a test cell, exposing the exterior side of the material to a chemical, and then observing the interior side of the material for visible signs of liquid penetration. Part of the test is conducted at an elevated pressure. Test results are reported as pass (no penetration) or fail (penetration detected). Unlike degradation testing, penetration testing provides an assessment of protective clothing material barrier performance. Since penetration resistance testing examines only observable amounts of liquid penetration, permeation may still occur. The use of penetration resistance data must be restricted to liquid chemicals, and should be limited to scenarios where there is no reasonable vapor exposure hazard under the conditions of exposure.

INTERPRETATION OF PERMEATION DATA

Permeation is the process of chemical movement through a material on a molecular level. Permeation resistance refers to the ability of a material to retard or prevent chemical movement through it. Permeation may occur without any visible signs of degradation.
Permeation resistance is measured using a test cell which is divided into two halves by a protective clothing specimen. Chemical is placed on the challenge side, while the collection side is periodically monitored for permeating chemical. Permeation data were obtained in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard Test Method F 739 (Resistance of Materials Used in Protective Clothing to Permeation by Liquids and Gases), unless stated otherwise. In the case of chemicals that are classified as warfare agents, the data were obtained in accordance with the Military Standard 282 (MIL-STD-282) (Military Standard, Filter Units, Protective Clothing, Gas-Mask Components, and Related Products: Performance Test Methods).
Permeation rate is the amount of chemical that passes through a material for a measured surface area per unit time. In this section, permeation rate is expressed in micrograms per square centimeter per minute (mcg/cm(2)/min). The reported permeation rate is either the steady-state rate or the maximum rate observed during testing. In some cases, very large permeation rates exceed measurement techniques and are reported as ">" (greater than) or "HIGH."
Breakthrough time is the elapsed time, in minutes, from the time the chemical comes in contact with the material exterior surface, to the time that chemical is detected on the interior surface. When no breakthrough is detected, the breakthrough time is report as ">" the testing period. If permeation breakthrough is rapid, results are reported as "<" (less than) the earlier sampling time or as "IMMEDIATELY" (which usually means breakthrough in less than 4 minutes).
The breakthrough time should exceed the expected use period of the selected protective clothing. Additionally, there are several other factors that must be taken into account to provide appropriate protection.
Permeation testing is usually conducted with full strength, undiluted chemical for the duration of the test period. Actual exposures may involve diluted chemical for short or intermittent exposure periods.
Permeation testing is usually conducted at room temperature. Permeation occurs faster at elevated temperatures (short breakthrough times and higher permeation rates) and slower at reduced temperatures (long breakthrough times and lower permeation rates).
Permeation resistance of mixtures cannot usually be determined on the basis of the individual chemicals making up the mixture. Synergistic effects may occur and result in more rapid permeation than accounted for by the individual mixture chemicals.
Permeation rates may be used to calculate potential wearer exposure; however, several assumptions must be made about the extent of exposure and condition of clothing wear. Furthermore, there are few chemicals with dermal exposure limits, making it difficult to determine an acceptable skin exposure level.

COMPANY INFORMATION

Best Manufacturing 579 Edison Street Menlo, GA 30731 USA Phone: (706) 862-2302 Fax: (706) 862-6000 Toll-Free: (800) 241-0323 Website: http://www.bestglove.com Email: USA@bestglove.com
DuPont Personal Protection P. O. Box 80705 Wilmington, DE 19880-0705 USA Phone: (302) 774-1000 Toll-Free: (800) 931-3456 Website: http://personalprotection.dupont.com Email: personalprotection@usa.dupont.com
Guardian Manufacturing Group 302 Conwell Avenue Willard, OH 44890-9525 USA Phone: (419) 933-2711 Fax: (419) 935-8961 Toll-Free: (800) 243-7379 Website: http://www.guardian-mfg.com
ILC Dover, Inc. One Moonwalker Rd. Frederica, DE 19946-2080 USA Phone: (302) 335-3911 Toll-Free: (800) 631-9567 Website: http://www.ilcdover.com Email: Customer_Service@ilcdover.com
LaCrosse-Rainfair Safety Products 18550 NE Riverside Parkway Portland, OR 97230 USA Phone: (800) 557-7246 Fax: (800) 558-0188 Toll-Free: (800) 557-7246 Website: http://www.lacrosserainfair.com Email: info@lacrossesafety.com
MAPA Spontex, Inc. 100 Spontex Dr. Columbia, TN 38401 USA Phone: (800) 537--2897 Fax: (800) 537--3299 Website: http://www.mapaglove.com Email: sales@mapaglove.com
Mar-Mac Manufacturing, Inc. P. O. Box P.O. Box 278 McBee, SC 29101 USA Phone: (843) 335-8211 Fax: (843) 355-8599 Toll-Free: (843) 335-8211 Website: http://www.marmac.com Email: info@marmac.com
North -- Safety 4H 2000 Plainfield Pike Cranston, RI 02921 USA Phone: (800) 430-4110 Fax: (800) 572-6346 Toll-Free: (800) 430-4110 Website: http://www.safety4.com
North Safety Products 2000 Plainfield Pike Cranston, RI 02921 USA Phone: (800) 430-4110 Fax: (800) 572-6346 Toll-Free: (800) 430-4110 Website: http://www.northsafety.com Email: marketing@northsafety.com
Onguard Industries 1850 Clark Road Havre de Grace, MD 21078 USA Phone: (410) 272-2000 Fax: (800) 304-2282 Toll-Free: (800) 365-2282 Website: http://www.onguardindustries.com Email: support@onguardindustries.com
River City 5321 East Shelby Dr. Memphis, TN 38188 USA Phone: (800) 888-0347 Fax: (901) 795-3815 Toll-Free: (800) 888-0347 Website: http://www.protectivewear.com Email: support@protectivewear.com
Servus (Norcross Safety Products) 1136 Second St Rock Island, IL 61202 USA Phone: (800) 777-9021 Fax: (800) 267-6809 Toll-Free: (800) 777-9021 Website: http://www.servusproducts.com Email: info@nspusa.com
Standard Safety Equipment Company 1407 Ridgeview Drive McHenry, IL 60050 USA Phone: (815) 363-8565 Fax: (815) 363-8633 Toll-Free: (815) 363-8565 Website: http://www.standardsafety.com Email: solson@standardsafety.com
Trelleborg-Viking, Inc. 170 West Road Suite 1 Portsmouth, NH 03801 USA Phone: (603) 436-1236 Fax: (603) 436-1392 Toll-Free: (800) 344-4458 Website: http://www.trelleborg.com/protective/ Email: protective@trelleborg.com

REFERENCES

CHEMICAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING CITATIONS

The following sources were consulted for chemical protective clothing data:

(Ansell-Edmont, 2001)
(Bata Shoe Company, 1995)
(Best Manufacturing, 2002)
(Best Manufacturing, 2004)
(Boss Manufacturing Company, 1998)
(ChemFab Corporation, 1993)
(Comasec Safety, Inc., 2003)
(Comasec Safety, Inc., 2003a)
(DuPont, 2002)
(DuPont, 2002)
(DuPont, 2003)
(Guardian Manufacturing Group, 2001)
(ILC Dover, Inc., 1998)
(Kappler Inc., 2001)
(Kimberly-Clark, 2002)
(LaCrosse-Rainfair, 1997)
(MAPA Professional, 2003)
(MAPA Professional, 2004)
(Mar-Mac Manufacturing, Inc, 1995)
(Marigold Industrial, 2003)
(Memphis Glove Company, 2001)
(Montgomery Safety Products, 1995)
(Nat-Wear, 2001)
(Neese Industries, Inc., 2003)
(North, 2002)
(North, 2002)
(Playtex, 1995)
(River City, 1995)
(Safety 4, 2002)
(Servus, 1995)
(Standard Safety Equipment, 1995)
(Tingley, 2002)
(Trelleborg-Viking, Inc., 2001)
(Trelleborg-Viking, Inc., 2002)
(Wells Lamont Industrial, 2002)
(Workrite, 1997)

ENGINEERING CONTROLS

INDUSTRIAL SETTINGS: Refer to 29 CFR 1910.1047 for information on appropriate engineering controls for ethylene oxide.

HEALTH CARE FACILITIES:

Although only a small amount of ethylene oxide is used as a sterilant, exposures are much higher during sterilization operations (particularly during unloading of sterilization chambers) (IARC, 1997; (Zenz, 1994). Gas sterilizer that uses ethylene oxide as a sterilant should be housed in rooms or hoods with dedicated exhaust ventilation system (NIOSH , 1989). With proper use of engineering controls and work practices, exposure levels can be very low (NTP , 2001a).

If the sterilizer is supplied by a ethylene oxide gas cylinder, the sterilizer, cylinder, and associated supply lines should be in one room (called mechanical access room, equipment room, or recess room) while access to the front should be gained through a separate room (called loading room) with a window for direct observation of the loading area and control console. Exhaust systems should be provided above the cylinder where it is connected to the supply lines in the mechanical access room and above the sterilizer door in the loading room (NIOSH , 1989).
The dedicated exhaust ventilation system should be designed so that prevailing winds will not carry the exhaust into populated areas or back into the building. Flow sensors and alarms should also be installed in case of fan failure or degraded ventilation performance (NIOSH , 1989). After a power loss, ventilation should be restored prior to operation of the sterilizer (NIOSH, 2000).

-PHYSICAL HAZARDS

FIRE HAZARD

SUMMARY

POTENTIAL FIRE OR EXPLOSION HAZARDS - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)
- Flammable; may be ignited by heat, sparks or flames.
- May form explosive mixtures with air.
- Those substances designated with a "P" may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire.
- Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground.
- Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back.
- Some of these materials may react violently with water.
- Cylinders exposed to fire may vent and release toxic and flammable gas through pressure relief devices.
- Containers may explode when heated.
- Ruptured cylinders may rocket.
- Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard.
Ethylene oxide is an extremely flammable gas at room temperature which can easily undergo explosive decomposition, even in anaerobic conditions. Liquid ethylene oxide is also very flammable, but not explosive (ITI, 1995; Pohanish, 2002). Pure ethylene oxide can be ignited in the absence of air. Once ignited, it can flash back to the fuel source with velocities of 1800 to 2400 m/sec (CHRIS , 2002; NIOSH, 2000).
Violent polymerization may be initiated by acids, bases, or heat and result in explosive ruptures of the containers (Bingham et al, 2001; Pohanish, 2002).
Contaminated ethylene oxide may polymerize violently, releasing heat and possibly rupturing the container. Vapors may burn inside a container. Containers exposed to heat or fire for long periods of time may violently rupture (AAR, 2000).
Aqueous solutions of ethylene oxide may be diluted to eliminate flash potential. In open areas it should be diluted as 1 part in 22 parts of water. In enclosed areas (such as sewers) it should be diluted as 1 part in 100 parts water (NFPA, 2002a).

FLAMMABILITY CLASSIFICATION

NFPA Flammability Rating for CAS75-21-8 (NFPA, 2002):

Listed as: Ethylene Oxide
Flammability Rating: 4

(4) Extremely flammable. Materials which will rapidly vaporize at normal pressure and temperature and will burn readily. Including: gases, cryogenic materials, any liquid or gaseous material having a flash point below 73 degrees F and a boiling point below 100 degrees F, and materials which can form explosive mixtures with air.

INITIATING OR CONTRIBUTING PROPERTIES

2% (w/w) in water: -2 degrees C (closed cup) (ACGIH, 1991)
-17.7 degrees C (0 degrees F) (Tagliabue open cup) (Lewis, 2001; OHM/TADS , 2002)
-18 degrees C (open cup) (Bingham et al, 2001)
-20 degrees C (-4 degrees F) (NFPA, 2002a)
Ethylene oxide may ignite from common sources of heat, and from sparks caused by static electricity (Pohanish, 2002).

FIRE CONTROL/EXTINGUISHING AGENTS

FIRE PRECAUTIONS - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)

DO NOT EXTINGUISH A LEAKING GAS FIRE UNLESS LEAK CAN BE STOPPED.

SMALL FIRE PRECAUTIONS - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)

Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or alcohol-resistant foam.

LARGE FIRE PRECAUTIONS - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)

Water spray, fog or alcohol-resistant foam.
FOR CHLOROSILANES, DO NOT USE WATER; use AFFF alcohol-resistant medium expansion foam.
Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk.
Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists.

TANK FIRE PRECAUTIONS - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)

Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles.
Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.
Do not direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur.
Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.
ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire.

NFPA Extinguishing Methods for CAS75-21-8 (NFPA, 2002):

Listed as: Ethylene Oxide
Extinguishing Method(s): 1

1: "Water may be ineffective" applies to a situation where materials with a flash point below 100 degrees F (37.8 degrees C) are burning. Water will only be effective if used by experienced fire fighters under favorable conditions. Even though water may not put the fire out, it can be used to protect equipment and structures.

Gas tight eye protection, gas tight respiratory equipment (self contained breathing apparatus), and up-to-date protective clothing are required for fire fighting personnel (OHM/TADS , 2002). Fight the fire from as far away as possible or from behind barriers with unmanned hose holder. Let the fire burn unless the leak can be stopped immediately (CHRIS , 2002; Pohanish, 2002). Move containers away from a fire if this is possible without risk. Move people away from a fire involving ethylene oxide and stay away from the ends of tanks. Evacuate the area quickly if the containers become discolored or a rising sound is heard from the containers. Fight liquid ethylene oxide fires with alcohol foam, carbon dioxide, dry chemical or water spray, fog, or foam (Pohanish, 2002).

In the event that ethylene oxide is on fire or involved in a fire, flooding quantities of water may be used as fog and to cool containers exposed to the fire. Solid streams of water may not be effective in fighting fires involving ethylene oxide. Always apply the water from a safe distance (AAR, 2000).

COMBUSTION TOXICITY

Combustion emits hazardous products (OHM/TADS , 2002):
- Incomplete combustion releases carbon monoxide (NIOSH, 2000). Carbon dioxide is also generated when heated to decomposition (NTP, 2001).

EXPLOSION HAZARD

Ethylene oxide is an extremely flammable gas at room temperature and normal pressure. It can easily undergo explosive decomposition even in anaerobic conditions (ITI, 1995; NIOSH, 2000; Pohanish, 2002). It can form explosive mixture with oxygen or air over a wide range of conditions (NFPA, 2002a) NTP, 2001). It is reactive under confinement (OHM/TADS , 2002). Ethylene oxide vapors are a fire and explosion hazard if there is inadequate heat dissipation. Ethylene oxide vapors are heavier than air and they may travel along the ground. Liquid ethylene oxide is also very flammable, but not explosive (ITI, 1995; NIOSH, 2000; Pohanish, 2002).

At approximately -5 degrees C, fumes of ethylene oxide form explosive mixtures with air (Lewis, 1998; Pohanish & Greene, 1997; Urben, 1999).

Ethylene oxide as a liquid may undergo explosive decomposition and may polymerize explosively (ACGIH, 1991; NFPA, 2002a):

It violently polymerizes in contact with strong acids, alkali metal hydroxides, oxidizers (such as chlorates, nitrates, perchlorates, permanganates, and peroxides), active catalysts (such as anhydrous chlorides of iron, tin and aluminum), mineral acids, metal chlorides and metal oxides (Bingham et al, 2001; CGA, 1999) Pohanish & Green, 1997; (Pohanish, 2002; Urben, 1995).
It also polymerizes in a violent reaction with amines and aqueous alkalies (CGA, 1999).
It may polymerize or rearrange chemically in contact with catalytic surfaces resulting in a violent and exothermic reaction (OHM/TADS , 2002).

DUST/VAPOR HAZARD

Ethylene oxide is an extremely flammable gas at room temperature and normal pressure. It can easily undergo explosive decomposition even in anaerobic conditions (ITI, 1995; NIOSH, 2000; Pohanish, 2002). It can form explosive mixture with oxygen or air over a wide range of conditions (NFPA, 2002a) NTP, 2001).

It is reactive under confinement (OHM/TADS , 2002). Ethylene oxide vapors are a fire and explosion hazard if there is inadequate heat dissipation. Ethylene oxide vapors are heavier than air and they may travel along the ground. Liquid ethylene oxide is also very flammable, but not explosive (ITI, 1995; NIOSH, 2000; Pohanish, 2002).

At approximately -5 degrees C, fumes of ethylene oxide form explosive mixtures with air (Lewis, 1998; Pohanish & Greene, 1997)

Incomplete combustion releases carbon monoxide (NIOSH, 2000). Carbon dioxide is also generated when heated to decomposition (NTP, 2001).

REACTIVITY HAZARD

CAUTION: This material may polymerize violently under high temperature conditions or upon contamination with other products. Polymerization will produce heat and high pressure buildup in containers which may lead to an explosion or container rupture (ERG, 2004).

Ethylene oxide should have no contact with copper, silver, magnesium or their alloys, or mercury and its salts to avoid dangerous runaway reactions (Bingham et al, 2001; CGA, 1999; Pohanish & Greene, 1997; Urben, 1999).

This compound attacks certain plastics, rubber, and coatings (Pohanish & Greene, 1997).

"It reacts with many pharmaceutical substances and with vitamins, amino acids, and other food constituents" (HSDB , 2002).

Ethylene oxide reacts with water:

Ethylene oxide and water may form stratified layers or may result in a runaway reaction (it then becomes more stable in aqueous solutions) (HSDB , 2002; NIOSH, 2000).
Dissolving ethylene oxide in a saline solution will result in formation of ethylene chlorohydrin and ethylene glycol (Grant, 1993).
It reacts with chloride and water to produce two active germicides: 2-chloroethanol and ethylene glycol (HSDB , 2002).
It reacts with acidified water to produce ethylene glycol (NIOSH, 2000).

Ethylene oxide is an extremely flammable gas at room temperature and normal pressure. It can easily undergo explosive decomposition even in anaerobic conditions (ITI, 1995; NIOSH, 2000; Pohanish, 2002). It can form explosive mixture with oxygen or air over a wide range of conditions (NFPA, 2002a) NTP, 2001). It is reactive under confinement (OHM/TADS , 2002). Ethylene oxide vapors are a fire and explosion hazard if there is inadequate heat dissipation. Ethylene oxide vapors are heavier than air and they may travel along the ground. Liquid ethylene oxide is also very flammable, but not explosive (ITI, 1995; NIOSH, 2000; Pohanish, 2002).

At approximately -5 degrees C, fumes of ethylene oxide form explosive mixtures with air (Lewis, 1998; Pohanish & Greene, 1997; Urben, 1999).

Ethylene oxide as a liquid may undergo explosive decomposition and may polymerize explosively (ACGIH, 1991; NFPA, 2002a):

It violently polymerizes in contact with strong acids, alkali metal hydroxides, oxidizers (such as chlorates, nitrates, perchlorates, permanganates, and peroxides), active catalysts (such as anhydrous chlorides of iron, tin and aluminum), mineral acids, metal chlorides and metal oxides (Bingham et al, 2001; CGA, 1999) Pohanish & Green, 1997; (Pohanish, 2002; Urben, 1995).
It also polymerizes in a violent reaction with amines and aqueous alkalies (CGA, 1999).
It may polymerize or rearrange chemically in contact with catalytic surfaces resulting in a violent and exothermic reaction (OHM/TADS , 2002).

EVACUATION PROCEDURES

SUMMARY

Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances (ERG, 2004)

Data presented from the Emergency Response Guidebook Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances are for use when a spill has occurred and there is no fire. If there is a fire, or if a fire is involved, evacuation information presented under FIRE - PUBLIC SAFETY EVACUATION DISTANCES should be used.
Generally, a small spill is one that involves a single, small package such as a drum containing up to approximately 200 liters, a small cylinder, or a small leak from a large package. A large spill is one that involves a spill from a large package, or multiple spills from many small packages.
Suggested distances to protect from vapors of toxic-by-inhalation and/or water-reactive materials during the first 30 minutes following the spill.

DOT ID No. 1040 - Ethylene oxide

SMALL SPILLS

First isolate in all directions: 30 meters (100 feet).
Note wind direction.
Then protect persons downwind:

during the DAY for: 0.1 kilometers (0.1 miles); or
during the NIGHT for: 0.2 kilometers (0.1 miles).

LARGE SPILLS

First isolate in all directions: 90 meters (300 feet).
Note wind direction.
Then protect persons downwind:

during the DAY for: 0.8 kilometers (0.5 miles); or
during the NIGHT for: 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles).

SPILL - PUBLIC SAFETY EVACUATION DISTANCES - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)

Increase, in the downwind direction, as necessary, the isolation distance of at least 100 to 200 meters (330 to 660 feet) in all directions.

FIRE - PUBLIC SAFETY EVACUATION DISTANCES - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)

If tank, rail car or tank truck is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions.

PUBLIC SAFETY MEASURES - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)

CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number:

MEXICO:

SETIQ:

01-800-00-214-00 in the Mexican Republic;
For calls originating in Mexico City and the Metropolitan Area: 5559-1588;
For calls originating elsewhere, call: 011-52-555-559-1588.

CENACOM:

01-800-00-413-00 in the Mexican Republic;
For calls originating in Mexico City and the Metropolitan Area: 5550-1496, 5550-1552, 5550-1485, or 5550-4885;
For calls originating elsewhere, call: 011-52-555-550-1496, or 011-52-555-550-1552; 011-52-555-550-1485, or 011-52-555-550-4885.

ARGENTINA:

CIQUIME:

0-800-222-2933 in the Republic of Argentina;
For calls originating elsewhere, call: +54-11-4613-1100.

BRAZIL:

PRÓ-QUÍMICA:

0-800-118270 (Toll-free in Brazil);
For calls originating elsewhere, call: +55-11-232-1144 (Collect calls are accepted).

COLUMBIA:

CISPROQUIM:

01-800-091-6012 in Colombia;
For calls originating in Bogotá, Colombia, call: 288-6012;
For calls originating elsewhere, call: 011-57-1-288-6012.

CANADA:

CANUTEC:

613-996-6666 (Collect calls are accepted);
*666 cellular (in Canada only).

UNITED STATES:

CHEMTREC®:

1-800-424-9300 (Toll-free in the U.S., Canada, and the U.S. Virgin Islands);
703-527-3887 for calls originating elsewhere (Collect calls are accepted).

CHEM-TEL, INC.:

1-800-255-3924 (Toll-free in the U.S., Canada, and the U.S. Virgin Islands);
813-248-0585 for calls originating elsewhere (Collect calls are accepted).

INFOTRAC:

1-800-535-5053 (Toll-free in the U.S., Canada, and the U.S. Virgin Islands);
352-323-3500 for calls originating elsewhere (Collect calls are accepted).

3E COMPANY:

1-800-451-8346 (Toll-free in the U.S., Canada, and the U.S. Virgin Islands);
760-602-8703 for calls originating elsewhere (Collect calls are accepted).

NATIONAL RESPONSE CENTER (NRC):

1-800-424-8802 - (24 hours) (Toll-free in the U.S., Canada, and the U.S. Virgin Islands);
202-267-2675 for calls in the District of Columbia.

MILITARY SHIPMENTS:

703-697-0218 - Explosives/ammunition incidents (Collect calls are accepted);
1-800-851-8061 - All other dangerous goods incidents.

NATIONWIDE POISON CONTROL CENTER (United States only):

1-800-222-1222 (Toll-free in the U.S.).

For additional details see the section entitled "WHO TO CALL FOR ASSISTANCE" under the ERG Instructions.
As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.
Keep unauthorized personnel away.
Stay upwind.
Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks).
Keep out of low areas.
Ventilate closed spaces before entering.

Ethylene oxide is extremely flammable; it is also an explosion and polymerization hazard. Evacuate all unnecessary people from a 1 mile radius around a rail car or truck containing ethylene oxide which is involved in a fire (ITI, 1995; Pohanish, 2002).

AIHA ERPG Values for CAS75-21-8 (AIHA, 2006):

Listed as Ethylene Oxide
ERPG-1 (units = ppm): Not appropriate
ERPG-2 (units = ppm): 50
ERPG-3 (units = ppm): 500
Under Ballot, Review, or Consideration: No
Definitions:

ERPG-1: The ERPG-1 is the maximum airborne concentration below which it is believed nearly all individuals could be exposed for up to one hour without experiencing more than mild, transient adverse health effects or perceiving a clearly defined objectionable odor.
ERPG-2: The ERPG-2 is the maximum airborne concentration below which it is believed nearly all individuals could be exposed for up to one hour without experiencing or developing irreversible or other serious health effects or symptoms that could impair an individual's ability to take protective action.
ERPG-3: The ERPG-3 is the maximum airborne concentration below which it is believed nearly all individuals could be exposed for up to one hour without experiencing or developing life-threatening health effects.

DOE TEEL Values for CAS75-21-8 (U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Emergency Management, 2010):

Listed as Ethylene oxide (Oxirane)
TEEL-0 (units = ppm): 1
TEEL-1 (units = ppm): 5
TEEL-2 (units = ppm): 45
TEEL-3 (units = ppm): 200
Definitions:

TEEL-0: The threshold concentration below which most people will experience no adverse health effects.
TEEL-1: The airborne concentration (expressed as ppm [parts per million] or mg/m(3) [milligrams per cubic meter]) of a substance above which it is predicted that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic, nonsensory effects. However, these effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of exposure.
TEEL-2: The airborne concentration (expressed as ppm or mg/m(3)) of a substance above which it is predicted that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience irreversible or other serious, long-lasting, adverse health effects or an impaired ability to escape.
TEEL-3: The airborne concentration (expressed as ppm or mg/m(3)) of a substance above which it is predicted that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience life-threatening adverse health effects or death.

AEGL Values for CAS75-21-8 (National Research Council, 2010; National Research Council, 2009; National Research Council, 2008; National Research Council, 2007; NRC, 2001; NRC, 2002; NRC, 2003; NRC, 2004; NRC, 2004; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2005; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2005; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; United States Environmental Protection Agency Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2009; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2008; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2005; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2005; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2005; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2005; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2005; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2005; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2005; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2005; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2007; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2005; National Advisory Committee for Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Hazardous Substances, 2006; 62 FR 58840, 1997; 65 FR 14186, 2000; 65 FR 39264, 2000; 65 FR 77866, 2000; 66 FR 21940, 2001; 67 FR 7164, 2002; 68 FR 42710, 2003; 69 FR 54144, 2004):

Listed as: Ethylene oxide
Proposed Value:

AEGL-1

10 min exposure:

ppm:
mg/m3:

30 min exposure:

ppm:
mg/m3:

1 hr exposure:

ppm:
mg/m3:

4 hr exposure:

ppm:
mg/m3:

8 hr exposure:

ppm:
mg/m3:

Definitions:

AEGL-1 is the airborne concentration of a substance above which it is predicted that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic non-sensory effects. However, the effects are not disabling, are transient, and are reversible upon cessation of exposure.

Listed as: Ethylene oxide
Proposed Value:

AEGL-2

10 min exposure:

ppm:
mg/m3:

30 min exposure:

ppm: 190 ppm
mg/m3: 342 mg/m(3)

1 hr exposure:

ppm: 110 ppm
mg/m3: 198 mg/m(3)

4 hr exposure:

ppm: 33 ppm
mg/m3: 59 mg/m(3)

8 hr exposure:

ppm: 19 ppm
mg/m3: 34 mg/m(3)

Definitions:

AEGL-2 is the airborne concentration of a substance above which it is predicted that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse health effects or an impaired ability to escape.

Listed as: Ethylene oxide
Proposed Value:

AEGL-3

10 min exposure:

ppm:
mg/m3:

30 min exposure:

ppm: 360 ppm
mg/m3: 648 mg/m(3)

1 hr exposure:

ppm: 200 ppm
mg/m3: 360 mg/m(3)

4 hr exposure:

ppm: 63 ppm
mg/m3: 113 mg/m(3)

8 hr exposure:

ppm: 35 ppm
mg/m3: 63 mg/m(3)

Definitions:

AEGL-3 is the airborne concentration of a substance above which it is predicted that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience life-threatening health effects or death.

NIOSH IDLH Values for CAS75-21-8 (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 2007):

IDLH: 800 ppm
Note(s): Ca

(Ca) NIOSH considers this substance to be a potential occupational carcinogen (See Appendix A).

CONTAINMENT/WASTE TREATMENT OPTIONS

SUMMARY

SPILL OR LEAK PRECAUTIONS - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)
- ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames in immediate area).
- All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded.
- Fully encapsulating, vapor protective clothing should be worn for spills and leaks with no fire.
- Do not touch or walk through spilled material.
- Stop leak if you can do it without risk.
- Do not direct water at spill or source of leak.
- Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material.
- FOR CHLOROSILANES, use AFFF alcohol-resistant medium expansion foam to reduce vapors.
- If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid.
- Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.
- Isolate area until gas has dispersed.
RECOMMENDED PROTECTIVE CLOTHING - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 119 (ERG, 2004)
- Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
- Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection.
- Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible.
Avoid contact with spilled ethylene oxide and stay upwind to avoid inhaling it. Stop the leak if this is possible without risk. Ensure that all sources of ignition are removed from the area. Use water spray to knock down and disperse vapors; make sure that water does not get inside the containers (CGA, 1999; ITI, 1995; NFPA, 2002a; Pohanish, 2002). Aqueous solutions of ethylene oxide may be diluted to eliminate flash potential. In open areas it should be diluted as 1 part in 22 parts of water. In enclosed areas (such as sewers) it should be diluted as 1 part in 100 parts water (NFPA, 2002a). Liquid form of ethylene oxide if spilled will quickly vaporize and form a gaseous cloud that lingers (unless dissipated by wind or ventilation devices) (Baselt, 2000).

WASTE TREATMENT OPTIONS

PHYSICAL TREATMENT

Ethylene oxide should be incinerated after dissolving in higher alcohol, benzene, or petroleum ether. To dispose of concentrated ethylene oxide waste containing no peroxides, discharge it at a controlled rate near a pilot flame. To dispose of concentrated ethylene oxide waste containing peroxides, perforate the container from a safe distance and burn (CGA, 1999; OHM/TADS , 2002; Sittig, 1991).
Ethylene oxide that may contain peroxides should be transported in a padded container to an isolated location. At that location, the container should be uncovered, and an excelsior train arranged. Using a rifle, puncture the container from a safe distance and ignite the excelsior train (OHM/TADS , 2002).
Waste management activities associated with material disposition are unique to individual situations. Proper waste characterization and decisions regarding waste management should be coordinated with the appropriate local, state, or federal authorities to ensure compliance with all applicable rules and regulations.

-ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD MANAGEMENT

POLLUTION HAZARD

Ethylene oxide can enter the environment as a result of its production and use in manufacturing, by its use as a fumigant and a sterilant, and as a component of gasoline and diesel exhaust. As a component of combustion products, ethylene oxide can be found in fires of naturally occurring hydrocarbons (Howard, 1990). It is also released into the environment by cigarette smoke (from ethylene oxide fumigated tobacco), degradation products of certain bacteria, and photochemcial smog (NTP , 2001a).

ENVIRONMENTAL FATE AND KINETICS

In the atmosphere, ethylene oxide will degrade through its reaction with hydroxyl radicals and water vapor with an estimated half-life of about 120 days. It may also be subject to wash-out based on its high solubility in water (Howard, 1990).
- An estimated half-life of ethylene oxide in air ranges from 38.2 days (917 hours) to 382 days (9167 hours) based on the photooxidation half-life (Howard et al, 1991).

WATER

SURFACE WATER
- Ethylene oxide in water will volatilize rapidly (hours to days) depending upon the wind and wave action. It will also hydrolyze with a half-life of 9-14 days. Ethylene oxide will biodegrade; the rate of biodegradation is not clear, though it is expected to be slower than either volatilization or hydrolysis. Ethylene oxide does not adsorb to sediments (Howard, 1990).

SOIL

TERRESTRIAL
- In soil, ethylene oxide will quickly volatilize. If it leaches into the soil, it will hydrolyze (Howard, 1990).

ABIOTIC DEGRADATION

Ethylene oxide hydrolyzes at rates dependent upon water conditions: It degrades slightly faster in fresh water than in salt water, and it degrades more quickly in acidic or basic conditions than in water with a neurtral pH. The rate of degradation from the reaction of ethylene oxide and hydroxyl radicals may be based on (5.3 +/- 1) x 10(-14) or (8.1 +/- 1.6) x 10(-14) (Howard, 1990).

The first-order hydrolysis half-life is reported to be 11.9 days (285 hours) at 25 degrees C (Howard et al, 1991).
The acid rate constant is reported to be 9.3 x 10(-3) M(-1)s(-1) at 25 degrees C (Howard et al, 1991).
The base rate constant is reported to be 1.0 x 10(-4) M(-1)s(-1) at 25 degrees C (Howard et al, 1991).
The photooxidation half-life in air is estimated to range from 38.2 days (917 hours) to 382 days (9167 hours) (Howard et al, 1991).
The photooxidation half-life in water is expected to be extremely slow (Howard et al, 1991).

BIODEGRADATION

Biodegradation appears to breakdown ethylene oxide after a period of acclimation, however, since ethylene oxide hydrolyzes to ethylene glycol which is quickly biodegraded, absolute measurements are difficult to obtain. A reported biodegradation rate of 3-5% after 5 days and 52% after 20 days was obtained in a dilution bottle test (Howard, 1990).

BIOACCUMULATION

HUMANS

Ethylene oxide is formed in the body from exogenous and endogenous sources of ethylene (Bingham et al, 2001):
- Exogenous ethylene may be from plant sources (ethylene is a natural plant hormone), cigarette smoke, and automobile exhaust.
- Endogenous ethylene may be from lipid peroxidation, oxidation of free methionine, and intestinal microbial metabolism.

BIOCONCENTRATION FACTOR

Ethylene oxide is not expected to bioconcentrate in aquatic organisms based on its low octanol/water partition coefficient (Howard, 1990).

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICITY

Ecotoxicity Values (Verschueren, 2000):

LC50 - WATER FLEA (Daphnia magna): 260-300 mg/L for 24H
LC50 - WATER FLEA (Daphnia magna): 137-300 mg/L for 48H
LC50 - CRUSTACEAN (Artemia salina): 350-570 mg/L for 24H
LC50 - CRUSTACEAN (Artemia salina): 490-1000 mg/L for 48H
LC50 - GOLDFISH: 90 mg/L for 24H
LC50 - FATHEAD MINNOW (Pimephales promelas): 84 mg/L for 96H

-PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

MOLECULAR WEIGHT

44.05

DESCRIPTION/PHYSICAL STATE

Ethylene oxide is an extremely flammable, highly reactive, colorless gas at room temperature and normal pressure. It becomes a stable, clear liquid at 10.4 degrees C (50.7 degrees F) and 101 kPa (14.7 psia), and it may polymerize violently. Liquid ethylene oxide is lighter than water. Vapors of ethylene oxide are heavier than air. Ethylene oxide has an ether-like odor that has also been described as a characteristic, sweet, olefinic odor (ACGIH, 1991; Ashford, 1994; Budavari, 1996; CGA, 1999; Bingham et al, 2001; Hathaway et al, 1996; HSDB , 2002; ILO, 1998; Verschueren, 2000).

VAPOR PRESSURE

1 mmHg (at -89.7 degrees C) (NTP, 2001)

5 mmHg (at -73.8 degrees C) (NTP, 2001)

10 mmHg (at -65.7 degrees C) (NTP, 2001)

20 mmHg (at -56.6 degrees C) (NTP, 2001)

40 mmHg (at -46.9 degrees C) (NTP, 2001)

60 mmHg (at -40.7 degrees C) (NTP, 2001)

100 mmHg (at -32.1 degrees C) (NTP, 2001)

200 mmHg (at -19.5 degrees C) (NTP, 2001)

400 mmHg (at -4.9 degrees C) (NTP, 2001)

494 mmHg (at 0 degrees C) (NTP, 2001)

760 mmHg (at 10.7 degrees C) (NTP, 2001)

1094 mmHg (at 20 degrees C) (Howard, 1990)

1095 mmHg (at 20 degrees C) (Lewis, 2000; Verschueren, 2000)

21.1 psia; 145.0 kPa (at 20 degrees C; 68 degrees F) (CGA, 1999)

1314 mmHg (at 25 degrees C) (HSDB , 2002)

200 mmHg (at -19.5 degrees C) (OHM/TADS , 2002)

2.1 atm (at 30 degrees C) (Lewis, 2000; Verschueren, 2000)

SPECIFIC GRAVITY

STANDARD TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE

(0 degrees C; 32 degrees F and 760 mmHg)
LIQUID: 0.8966 (at 0/4 degrees C) (Bingham et al, 2001)

OTHER TEMPERATURE AND/OR PRESSURE

LIQUID: 0.891 (at 4/4 degrees C) (Budavari, 1996)
LIQUID: 0.887 (at 7/4 degrees C) (Verschueren, 2000)
LIQUID: 0.887 (at 7/7 degrees C) (Budavari, 1996)
LIQUID: 0.882 (at 10/10 degrees C) (Budavari, 1996)
LIQUID: 0.8222 (at 10/10 degrees C) (ILO, 1998)
GAS: 0.8711 (at 20/20 degrees C) (Bingham et al, 2001; Lewis, 2000)

DENSITY

OTHER TEMPERATURE AND/OR PRESSURE

LIQUID: 0.89 kg/L (at 4 degrees C) (Ashford, 2001)
LIQUID: 869.8 kg/m(3); 54.30 lb/ft(3) (at 20 degrees C, 146 kPa abs) (CGA, 1999)
GAS: 0.89 kg/m(3) (at 0 degrees C) (NFPA, 2002a)
GAS: 2.804 kg/m(3); 0.1751 lb/ft(3) (at 20 degrees C, 146 kPa abs) (CGA, 1999)

FREEZING/MELTING POINT

FREEZING POINT

-111.3 degrees C (Bingham et al, 2001; Lewis, 2001)
-112.6 degrees C; -170.7 degrees F (CGA, 1999)

MELTING POINT

-111 degrees C (ACGIH, 1991; Budavari, 1996)
-112 degrees C; -170 degrees F (Ashford, 2001; NFPA, 2002a)
-112.5 degrees C (Howard, 1990; ILO, 1998)
-111.3 degrees C (Lewis, 2000)

BOILING POINT

10.4 degrees C; 50.7 degrees F (at 760 mmHg; 101.3 kPa abs; 14.7 psia) (CGA, 1999)

10.7 degrees C (at 760 mmHg) (Budavari, 1996) Howard, 1990; (ILO, 1998)

10.73 degrees C (ACGIH, 1991; Lewis, 2001)

10 degrees C (Ashford, 2001)

FLASH POINT

2% (w/w) in water: -2 degrees C (closed cup) (ACGIH, 1991)

-17.7 degrees C (0 degrees F) (Tagliabue open cup) (Lewis, 2001; OHM/TADS , 2002)

-18 degrees C (open cup) (Bingham et al, 2001)

-20 degrees C (-4 degrees F) (NFPA, 2002a)

AUTOIGNITION TEMPERATURE

427 degrees C (decomposes violently) (NTP, 2001)

429 degrees C; 804 degrees F (ACGIH, 1991; HSDB , 2002; NFPA, 2002a)

IN THE ABSENCE OF AIR: 1058 degrees F (NFPA, 2002a)

EXPLOSIVE LIMITS

LOWER

3% (ACGIH, 1991; Bingham et al, 2001; ILO, 1998)

UPPER

100% (ACGIH, 1991; Bingham et al, 2001; ILO, 1998)

SOLUBILITY

IN WATER

Ethylene oxide is reported to be infinitely soluble or completely miscible in water (ACGIH, 1991; Ashford, 2001; Budavari, 1996; ILO, 1998) Raffle, 1994).

8700 mole/L water (at 20 degrees C and 760 mmHg) (Howard, 1990).
1,000,000 ppm (at 25 degrees C) (OHM/TADS , 2002)

IN ORGANIC SOLVENTS

It is miscible or soluble in oxygenated solvents, alcohol, ether, acetone, methanol, benzene, and carbon dioxide (Ashford, 1994; Bingham et al, 2001; Budavari, 1996; CGA, 1999).
It is also miscible with carbon tetrachloride (HSDB , 2002)

OCTANOL/WATER PARTITION COEFFICIENT

log Kow = -0.30 (experimental) (HSDB , 2002; Verschueren, 2000)

log Kow = -0.52 (calculated) (Verschueren, 2000)

HENRY'S CONSTANT

1.2 x 10(-4) atm-m(3)/mole (Howard, 1990)

3.63 x 10(-5) atm-m(3)/mol (Ehrenfeld et al, 1986)

SPECTRAL CONSTANTS

1109 (Sadtler Research Laboratories Prism Collection) (HSDB , 2002)

MASS

12 (Atlas of Mass Spectral Data, John Wiley & Sons, New York) (HSDB , 2002)

OTHER/PHYSICAL

ODOR THRESHOLD

260-261 ppm (perception) (ACGIH, 1991; Bingham et al, 2001)
500-700 ppm (recognition) (ACGIH, 1991; Bingham et al, 2001)
50 ppm (CHRIS , 2002)
1.5 mg/m(3) in air (OHM/TADS , 2002)
300 ppm in air (HSDB , 2002)
Low: 520 mg/m(3); High: 1400 mg/m(3) (HSDB , 2002)

SURFACE TENSION

24.3 dynes/cm; 0.0243 N/m (estimated) (at 20 degrees C) (CHRIS , 2002)

CRITICAL PRESSURE

7191 kPa abs; 1043 psia (CGA, 1999)
7194.1 kPa (HSDB , 2002)
1040 psia; 71.0 atm; 7.2 MN/m(2) (CHRIS , 2002)

CRITICAL TEMPERATURE

196 degrees C; 385 degrees F; 469.15 K (CGA, 1999; HSDB , 2002)

HEAT OF COMBUSTION

LIQUID: 1280.9 kJ/mol (HSDB , 2002)
GAS: 1306.1 kJ/mol (HSDB , 2002)
-11,480 Btu/lb; -6380 cal/g; -267.1X10(5) J/kg (CHRIS , 2002)

HEAT OF FUSION

28.07 cal/g (HSDB , 2002)
5.1714 J/k mol (HSDB , 2002)
117.4 kJ/kg; 50.5 Btu/lb (CGA, 1999)

INDEX OF REFRACTION

1.3597 (at 7 degrees C) (Budavari, 1996)
1.3614 (at 4 degrees C) (Bingham et al, 2001)

IONIZATION POTENTIAL

10.56 eV (HSDB , 2002)

VISCOSITY

LIQUID: 0.32 cP (at 0 degrees C) (Lewis, 2001)
LIQUID: 0.254 mPa.s (at 10 degrees C) (HSDB , 2002)
GAS: 9.45x10(-3) mPa.s (at 25 degrees C) (HSDB , 2002)

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ETHYLENE OXIDE

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Information to evaluate chemical incidents

Information to evaluate chemical incidents

Information to evaluate chemical incidents